Road bikes

What makes a road bike?

A road bike is a bicycle that is specially designed for high speeds on tarmac roads. It is characterised by its low weight, narrow tyres and a special drop bar for an aerodynamic cycling position. The central, raised riding position enables the rider to transfer power efficiently to the pedals while minimising air resistance. It is the ideal bike for road races and long distances on flat surfaces.

Road bike or gravel bike – which one suits me?

A road bike is primarily designed for use on tarmac and well-maintained roads. It is characterised by a low overall weight, narrow tyres and an aerodynamic riding position. This enables high speeds and efficient power transmission. Road bikes are ideal for long distances on the road and for racing cyclists.

A gravel bike, on the other hand, is designed for more versatile conditions. For more off-road potential, it has wider tyres, a more upright riding position and more stable handling. At the same time, it is still lightweight and aerodynamic enough to accelerate quickly and reach high speeds. Gravel bikes are ideal for people who like to ride off-road, for example on gravel, dirt or forestry paths.

Road bike

Gravel bike

Weight

Very lightweight

Lightweight

Tyres

Narrow and without tread pattern

Wider with a knobby profile

Off-road

Road

Road and moderate terrain

Riding position

Aerodynamic

More comfortable, more upright

Suitable for

Long distances
Road race

Versatile surfaces
Gravel race

Off-road capable

No

Yes

Aluminium vs. carbon frame?

What is the system weight?

The weight of a road bike plays a decisive role in terms of the performance a cyclist can deliver on the road. A lightweight road bike makes it easier to accelerate and ride uphill, as less effort is required to move the bike.

There are various factors that influence the weight of a road bike. First of all, the material from which the bike is made is crucial. Carbon, for example, is a very lightweight and stiff material that is often used for high-quality road bikes. However, aluminium is also used, although these bikes are usually heavier.

The components of the bike also influence the overall weight, first and foremost the wheels and tyres, but also the groupset, the pedals, the saddle and the handlebar. High-quality components are usually lighter, but also more expensive.

The weight is therefore determined by the budget, but also by the intended use and personal requirements. If comfort is more important to you and you enjoy riding relaxed tours in your free time, you will pay less attention to weight than a sporty cyclist with racing ambitions.

Which groupset is right for me?

In road cycling, doublespeed gears with two chainrings are usually still the first choice. However, it is worth taking a look at the gearing. While performance-orientated riders usually opt for larger chainrings, many also prefer a more compact gearing – depending on the type of rider, the fitness level and the terrain. However, the number of teeth only becomes meaningful if you put chainrings and sprockets in relation and consider both the largest and the smallest gear.

As with all sporty bikes, electronic gears are becoming increasingly popular on road bikes, but are usually reserved to higher-end groupsets. Thanks to a servomotor in the rear derailleur and front derailleur, the shifting process is particularly fast, reliable and requires no lever force on the shifter. On the other hand, the lower price and the independence from electricity for battery charging speak in favour of mechanical shifting.

In addition to these visible differences, it is mostly weight advantages that distinguish the higher-quality from the mid-range groupsets. The material quality is often higher and the shifting performance more precise. The top groupsets of the major manufacturers are on an equal footing, even if they differ slightly in terms of philosophy and shifting logic. It is therefore often personal or visual preferences that tip the scales in favour of Shimano, SRAM or Campagnolo.

What is the right road bike frame height for me?

The frame size of a road bike is usually specified as the frame height in centimetres. This value is based on the traditional diamond frame with a straight top tube that was common in the past. To find the right frame height for you, you should know your inside leg length and convert it using a simple formula.


This is how you calculate your frame height:

Frame height = Inside leg length (in cm) x 0,665


This is how you measure your inside leg length:

1. Stand with your back against a wall without wearing shoes.
2. Place a book between your legs so that it is perpendicular to the wall. It should be positioned as high as if you were sitting on a saddle.
3. Have a second person measure the height from the floor to the top edge of the book. This is your inside leg length.

Remember: This figure is only a guideline value. Your ideal measurements also depend on factors like your body proportions and your riding style.


If you are not sure about the frame size, just visit us in one of our stores. A short test ride is the best way to find out what frame height you feel comfortable with.

Buy a road bike at ROSE

If you are happy with your new road bike, we are happy too. And because it takes more than just the bike, we want to give you a good feeling right from the start. Both before, during and after the purchase. Whether with technical advice or practical services. Because cycling can sometimes be exhausting enough. That's why we do everything we can to keep you in the saddle and having fun.

FAQ

If I order the road bike, can I still get a bike fitting?

We do not currently offer professional bike fitting. However, you will receive detailed instructions and tips on how to optimise the contact points on your bike to achieve an efficient and comfortable riding position. However, should you have any complaints, our team will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.

Are changes to the bike order or customised bikes possible?

We do not offer any customisation options in the ordering process. However, our advisors will be happy to help you select suitable accessories or spare parts so that you can order and fit them yourself. Some local stores also offer a workshop service for this.

What is the delivery time for a road bike?

The delivery time depends on the model and the current demand.

How is the road bike delivered?

Your road bike is delivered safely packed and pre-assembled. It only takes a few steps to get it ready to ride. Detailed instructions are included in the package. You can find a short video tutorial here.

Can I return my road bike if I don't like it?

Yes, you have a 14-day right of return. If the road bike does not meet your expectations, you can return it. Please note that in this case the road bike should be unused and in its original packaging.

Is there a warranty on the road bike?

Yes, we offer a warranty on your new road bike. The statutory warranty period of 2 years applies to bikes.

We also offer a voluntary manufacturer's warranty for ROSE frames, ROSE forks and selected ROSE wheels: If one of the aforementioned parts is covered by our ROSE Crash Replacement Service (as indicated in its product description) and gets damaged by a crash or broken in an accident, we will replace your ROSE frame, ROSE fork or ROSE wheel with the same or comparable model of our current product range for 50% of the sales price within six years from the date of purchase.

Where can I buy spare parts for my road bike?

You can order spare parts for your road bike directly from us. We offer a wide range of suitable components and accessories and will be happy to help you make the right choice.